Avoid Gum Disease by Averting a Plaque Attack

Gum disease goes by many names including gingivitis, periodontitis, receding gums, and inflammation but they all describe the same painful condition of inflamed gums, sore teeth, and possible tooth loss. Gum disease can strike at any age, but most frequently appears after age 40 and is commonly considered a side effect of aging.

Gingivitis accounts for nearly 70% of gum disease and its symptoms include gum inflammation, pain at the gum line, bleeding during brushing and flossing, sensitivity to hot and cold, and constant bad breath. It’s caused when bacteria gets trapped in the gum line and does not get removed by proper brushing and flossing. That bacteria causes plaque and tartar to build up on your teeth and if they’re not removed by daily cleaning or visits to the dentist, they can irritate the gums and lead to gingivitis and tooth decay. But just as poor dental hygiene can cause these painful problems, good dental care can help prevent them.

Unfortunately, gingivitis can evolve into a more serious type of gum disease called periodontitis if left untreated. Periodontitis occurs in approximately 30% of the cases when inflammation has increased so much that it starts affecting the tissue and bone that support the teeth. To treat and prevent the effects of periodontitis, you should get immediate treatment from a dentist in Springfield, since the condition requires professional dental care. While your treatment options vary by the severity of the damage, you can’t afford to ignore the problem and an affordable dentist can help you find options that suit your needs and your budget.

Now that you know the sources and signs of gum disease, you can take the necessary steps to prevent it. Brush two or three times a day with a soft-bristled brush and use a gentle motion to protect the delicate gums and tooth enamel. At least once a day, floss gently yet thoroughly and rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash. This may seem like basic hygiene, but it can help remove the plaque that causes dental disease. Also, treatment is much more costly than prevention and while an affordable dentist can ease the expense, realize that saving your teeth can also save you money.

While most of us try to keep our teeth in top condition, we can’t overlook the importance of healthy gums. Proper dental care includes attention to both the teeth and the gums through good dental hygiene and regular visits to your dentist in Springfield. It may surprise you that these simple steps can help prevent tooth decay and protect you from the damage of gum disease. And altogether, they can make a major difference in your dental health.

Gentle Dental offers affordable family dentistry and gentle, compassionate care in Springfield. With 14 affiliated practices in the Greater Philadelphia area, our offices are conveniently located with extended hours to meet your needs. We provide most dental services from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures and complete dental reconstruction. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover an affordable dentist who truly cares at Gentle Dental of Springfield.

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We accept most insurance plans and will be happy to help you understand the coverage that you have. We will do our best to see that you receive your maximum insurance benefits for all covered services.

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